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Evolution

 mesonyx  

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The Origin of Whales

Whales or cetaceans are believed to have evolved from an extinct group of land mammals called "Mesonyx", which are also considered to be the ancestors of deer, camels, pigs, cows and hippos. The Mesonyx had wolf-like proportions, long limbs and walked on their fingers and toes.

Adapting to Live in Water

The earliest whales appeared approximately 50 Mio. years ago. Since then, a number of whale-like animals evolved, with further adaptations to life in the water. They developed a streamlined body shape together with a pronounced skull and protruding jaws. The forelimbs became paddle-like flippers, still containing the fingers of their ancestors. The nostrils migrated to the top of the head and the external ear flaps disappeared. 

Species and Families 

About 80 species are currently known, divided into the two suborders: toothed whales or baleen whales. Deriving from the same ancestor, the deviation time for the split is not yet determined. 


News

26. February 2011

Entrance Fees for 2011

Entrance Fees 2011:

Adults: 1.250 ISK

Children (6-14 years): 500 ISK

Senior Citizens (from 65 years): 900 ISK

Groups (+10): Adults: 900 ISK, children: 400 ISK

22. December 2010

2010 - A Year of Renovation at the Whale Museum

In the spring the entrance was moved to a restored area in the eastern part of the museum which now hosts the tourist information centre for Húsavík, together with the museum´s store.

24. May 2010

Humpback whale from Skjálfandi Bay photographed off Africa

It is still quite early in the season but the museum’s researchers have already been out on the whale watching boats several times to collect data and take pictures of whales that have been sighted during the trips.


OPENING HOURS

June, July and August
09:00 - 19:00

May and September
10:00 - 17:00

Other times by arrangement



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